A RETAIL chain with a store in Widnes has announced that it will be closing around 30 shops over the next five years.

M&S announced its half year results last week.

The chain has a shop on Widnes Shopping Park.

The announcement said that the chain will be closing approximately 30 of its shops as part of a five year programme, which a spokeswoman for the firm confirmed are clothing and home stores and are described by the company as ‘full line’ outlets.

The changes also envisage either ‘downsizing or replacing around 45’ of the full line stores to Simply Food outlets.

The M&S spokeswoman confirmed that no specific store locations have been announced by the firm affected by the proposals.

M&S chief executive Steve Rowe said: “Our aim is to build a sustainable business which will delight our customers, provide a robust foundation for future growth and deliver value for our shareholders in the long term.

“We have now completed a forensic review of our estate both in the UK and in our international markets.

“Over the next five years we will transform our UK estate with 60 fewer Clothing & Home stores, whilst continuing to increase the number of our Simply Food stores.

“In the future, we will have more inspiring stores in places where customers want to shop that complement our growing digital offer.

“These are tough decisions, but vital to building a future M&S that is simpler, more relevant, multi-channel and focused on delivering sustainable returns.”